Split a layer, Auto-orientation options – Adobe After Effects CS3 User Manual
Page 151
AFTER EFFECTS CS3
User Guide
146
See also
“Copy and paste keyframes” on page 191
“Work with layer properties in the Timeline panel” on page 152
“Shortcuts for working with layers” on page 645
Split a layer
In the Timeline panel, you can split a layer at any time, creating two independent layers. This is a time-saving alter-
native to duplicating and trimming the layer—something you might do when you want to change the stacking-order
position of the layer in the middle of the composition.
Note: To make new split layers appear above the original layer in the Timeline panel, select Create Split Layers Above
Original Layer (Edit > Preferences > General (Windows) or After Effects > Preferences > General (Mac OS)). Deselect
this option to make the layers appear below the original layer.
1
Select one or more layers.
2
Move the current-time indicator to the time at which to split the layers.
3
Choose Edit > Split Layer.
When you split a layer, both resulting layers contain all of the keyframes that were in the original layer in their
original positions. Any applied track mattes retain their order, on top of the layer.
After you split a layer, the duration of the original layer ends at the point of the split, and the new layer starts at that
point in time.
If no layer is selected when you choose Edit > Split Layer, all layers are split at the current time.
Paul Tuersley provides a script for splitting layers at layer-time markers:
See also
“Change the stacking order for selected layers” on page 138
“Shortcuts for working with layers” on page 645
Auto-Orientation options
Each layer’s auto-orientation options (Layer > Transform > Auto-Orient) specify how its orientation depends on
motion paths, points of interest, and cameras.
Off
The layer rotates freely, independent of the motion path, point of interest, or other layers.
Orient Along Path
The layer faces in the direction of the motion path. For example, use this option for a camera to
depict a driver’s perspective while looking at the road ahead while driving.
Orient Towards Camera
The layer is always oriented so that it faces the active camera. This option is available for 3D
layers; this option is not available for 2D layers, cameras, or lights.
Orient Towards Point Of Interest
The camera or light always points at its point of interest. This option is not available
for layers other than cameras and lights.